Halloween provides a challenging environment for taking photos. Most of the activity happens in the dark. You’re trying to capture a spooky mood. And excited kids never stop moving. Photos can turn out blurry, washed out, noisy or too dark.

Getting it just right will take a little preparation. But it’s worth it. Let me walk you through Halloween night. I’ll give you tips and ideas for capturing great photos.

Getting dressed

Readying their costumes, makeup, wigs and weapons is exciting. Anticipation and spirits are at their highest. It’s also a time you might not think to photograph. But it may produce some of the best candid shots of the night.

Just pull out your camera and start shooting. Volume is the key here. You’ll throw away most of the shots. But a handful will be real gems.

Get shots of half-dressed kids and smiling faces. Shoot in the bathroom while they apply makeup in the mirror. Get those impromptu foam sword fights. Don’t worry about posing anyone. You want candid photos. That means no “Cheese!” moments. These will come later.

Avoid using your camera’s flash. You’ll end up with washed out details. Your home should have adequate lighting. See if your camera has a good indoor photo setting. Try it out a few days before. That way you’ll know what works.